7 Days in Portugal Itinerary 2026: Lisbon, Sintra & Porto Route

Portugal is the sunniest corner of Europe. It offers the history of Rome but at half the price. It is famous for yellow trams, blue tiles, and dangerous calorie-bombs called Pastel de Nata. However, the hills are steep (wear sneakers!) and driving in Sintra is a nightmare. You need a strategic online trip planner to navigate the vertical streets and secure entry to the Disney-like palaces. This updated Portugal route planner 2026 connects the capital's charm with the northern soul of Porto.

Before You Go: The "Lisbon Card" Hack

Should you buy the Lisbon Card? For 24 or 48 hours, it gives you free unlimited transport (including the famous Tram 28 and Santa Justa Lift which are expensive otherwise) and free entry to Belém Tower. For most travelers, it pays for itself in one day.

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Days 1-3: Lisbon (The City of Seven Hills)

Start in the capital. It is colorful, tiled, and hilly.

Day 1: Alfama & Tram 28

Get up early and catch Tram 28. It rattles through the narrowest streets of the old district, Alfama. Get off at the Miradouro de Santa Luzia for the classic view of red rooftops and the river.

Day 2: Belém District

Take the train to Belém. Visit the Jerónimos Monastery (massive UNESCO site) and the Belém Tower. Essential: Eat the original "Pastel de Belém" at the bakery next door. There is always a line, but it moves fast.

Day 3: Pink Street & Time Out Market

For lunch, visit the Time Out Market (huge food hall). In the evening, walk down the Instagram-famous Pink Street (Rua Nova do Carvalho) for nightlife and photos.

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Day 4: Sintra Day Trip (Fairytales & Wells)

Take the train (40 mins) from Rossio Station to Sintra. Do not drive. There is no parking.

Pena Palace

This is the red and yellow castle on top of the mountain. It looks like it was built by Disney. Warning: You must book a timed entry slot online. If you are late, they will deny entry.

Quinta da Regaleira

Visit this mystical estate. The highlight is the Initiation Well, a spiral staircase that goes deep into the earth. It was used for secret tarot/masonic rituals. It is spooky and cool.

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Days 5-7: Porto (Wine & Harry Potter)

Take the train (3 hours) north to Porto. It feels more traditional and gritty than Lisbon.

Day 5: Ribeira & Dom Luís I Bridge

Walk along the Ribeira riverfront. Walk across the top deck of the massive Dom Luís I Bridge for the best sunset view in Portugal.

Day 6: Livraria Lello

Visit Livraria Lello, often called the most beautiful bookstore in the world. Rumor has it that J.K. Rowling (who lived in Porto) was inspired by its staircase for Harry Potter's Hogwarts. You need a ticket voucher to enter.

Day 7: Port Wine Tasting

Cross the river to Gaia. Visit a wine cellar (like Graham's or Taylor's) to taste the famous sweet Port Wine. It is strong, so sip slowly.

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Portuguese Food Guide: Egg Tarts & Fish

1. Pastel de Nata: Custard tart with a crispy pastry shell, dusted with cinnamon. Eat at least 3 a day.
2. Bacalhau: Salted cod fish. Locals say there are 365 ways to cook it (one for each day of the year).
3. Francesinha: A Porto specialty. A sandwich filled with four types of meat, covered in melted cheese and a beer sauce. It is a heart attack on a plate.